King James Version

What Does Mark 11:6 Mean?

Mark 11:6 in the King James Version says “And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go.” — study this verse from Mark chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go.”

Mark 11:6 · KJV

Context

4

And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met; and they loose him.

5

And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?

6

And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go.

7

And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and he sat upon him.

8

And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go (οἱ δὲ εἶπαν αὐτοῖς καθὼς εἶπεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ ἀφῆκαν αὐτούς)—the disciples' simple obedience to Jesus' instructions produces the predicted result. The phrase even as Jesus had commanded emphasizes exact compliance—they repeated Jesus' words precisely. The verb aphēkan (ἀφῆκαν) means the bystanders "released" or "let go" the disciples, the same root verb (aphiēmi) used throughout Scripture for forgiveness—to release, let go, send away.

This brief verse demonstrates that Jesus' word carries authority sufficient to resolve conflicts and provide for His purposes. The bystanders' acceptance of the explanation "the Lord has need of him" suggests either recognition of Jesus' authority or the Holy Spirit's work inclining hearts to cooperate with God's redemptive plan. The seamless fulfillment of Jesus' prediction builds narrative tension toward His Jerusalem entry and strengthens reader confidence in His prophetic statements about His death and resurrection.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The phrase "the Lord has need" apparently satisfied the questioners, suggesting Jesus had developed a reputation in the Jerusalem area during previous visits (John's Gospel records multiple trips). Alternatively, the owner may have been present among the bystanders and granted permission. The Greek construction suggests immediate compliance—no extended negotiation or debate. This incident occurred on Sunday of Passion Week, likely in the early morning as Jesus prepared for His triumphal entry. Within days, Jesus would face very different questioners (Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, Herodians) who would not be satisfied by His answers but would seek to trap Him. The contrast between the bystanders' easy acceptance here and the religious leaders' hostile rejection illustrates the divided response to Jesus—some receive Him gladly while others oppose Him violently.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the bystanders' acceptance of 'the Lord has need of him' reveal about Jesus' reputation and authority in the Jerusalem area?
  2. How does this incident's smooth resolution build confidence in Jesus' predictions about His death and resurrection?
  3. In what ways does faithful repetition of Jesus' words provide authority and direction in challenging situations today?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
οἱ1 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 11

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

εἶπον3 of 11

“they said”

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

αὐτούς4 of 11

“them”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καθὼς5 of 11

“even as”

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

ἐνετείλατο6 of 11

“had commanded”

G1781

to enjoin

ὁ7 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Ἰησοῦς8 of 11

“Jesus”

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

καὶ9 of 11

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἀφῆκαν10 of 11

“go”

G863

to send forth, in various applications (as follow)

αὐτούς11 of 11

“them”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 11:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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